Jigawa governor, deputy, emir shun VP Osinbajo during visit

Governor of Jigawa State Muhammadu Badru and his deputy Umar Namadi absented themselves from the state on Saturday, during Vice President Yemi Osinbajo visit.

Osunbajo visited the state to canvass for support from All Progressives Congress delegates.

The protocol for the Vice President showed he was billed to meet the governor and pay homage to the Emir of Dutse Nuhu Muhammad-Sanusi.

However, the emir was absent despite having foreknowledge of the visit.

The emir had earlier endorsed another aspirant, Rotimi Amaechi, for the presidency.

The Vice President reportedly rescheduled the original appointment with the governor from 1 p.m to 3 p.m. but still could not meet with Badaru.

Badru was said to be in neighbouring Kano State at the time.

Premium Timesreports that the governor allegedly left the state the day of the vice president’s visit and directed members of his party’s executive council in the state not to be present during the VP’s visit.

However, the secretary to the state government, Abdulkadir Fanini, received Osinbajo and his entourage.

Osinbajo told reporters after the meeting at the Three Stars hotel that he was hopeful the delegates would support him.

“The meeting was extremely fruitful, the delegates all understood where we were coming from and what we will be doing in a few years ahead,” Osinbajo said.

“The vice president left the state without meeting any top officials from the state and he reportedly avoided a lunch prepared for him at the Jigawa Government House,” said the report.